Netsuke of an abstract bird. Superb stylish carving wonderfully capturing the essence of the creature. Beautiful clean piece carved out of ivory and horn. Signed MHB on inlaid solid gold plaque - Michael Henry Birch (1926-2008) was one of the best 20th century netsuke carvers. Length 3.22 inches.

Tall boxwood netsuke of 8 quails feeding on millet. Perfectly captured mood of the scene, extraordinary carving to the last detail, eyes are double inlaid with horn and mother of pearl, beautiful finish, in superb condition. Signed AKIHIDE on the bottom - this brilliant contemporary artist (born 1934) belonged to the So School lineage. Height 4.1 inches (104 mm).

Wood netsuke of three peanuts. A naturalistic grouping, dark stained. An ivory plug may bear a highly stylised signature.

Provenance : Arlette Katchen, Paris.

Japan, 20th century

Width : 1.6 in. (4.3 cm)

Wooden netsuke of thoughtful ape (looks like orangutan) by contemporary New Zealand netsuke carver Doug Marsden (b. 1958). Superb quality carving to the last detail, extraordinary face with horn inlaid pupils, perfectly carved hands and feet with well defined joints and nails, beautifully textured coat, great staining. Height 2 inches.

1930's Japanese Gilt Silver Chrysanthemum Motif Water Dropper Suiteki

It is 1.25 inches (3.2 cm) wide by 2.4 inches (6 cm) in length. It weighs 46 gram.

It is tarnished and has loss of gilding and surface wears and scratches (as seen in the photos).

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This an excellent hand-carved contemporary netsuke of a standing Hotei carrying his bag over his right shoulder. In his left hand he holds a Ruyi Scepter. Signed Shodo on a rectangular reserve on the bottom of the netsuke. SHODO, the Go name of Hiroshi Asaoka, born in Tokyo in the year 1923 was a master of intricate detailed carvings, and quiet, serene designs, who studied under Shomin. Netsuke measures 1.40 inches (3.5cm) in diameter, and 2.0 inches (5.ocm) tall...

Wooden okimono of a grinning skull by contemporary carver Brad Blakely (American, b. 1951). The piece represents a Nevadan Lovelock Cave Giant’s Skull, c. 1,000 A.D. Superbly quality carving, exquisite execution of details and textures, beautiful staining. Mountain mahogany & 14K gold reserve with the initial of the carver. Length 2.17 inches.

Rare subject marine netsuke of a swimming tadpole. Superb stylish carving wonderfully capturing the essence of the creature. Beautiful clean piece, eyes are inlaid with solid gold. Signed MHB on inlaid silver plaque - Michael Henry Birch (1926-2008) was one of the best 20th century netsuke carvers. Length 2.34 inches.

A set of a tobacco container carved in the form of either two sages or eccentric spirits. The container is carved in the form where the figure is sitting inside a jar while the other is has the distinct eccentric smile seen in images in sages. The piece contains a signature which reads Nissho Age:20th century Size: The container: Height: 3.5" Diameter: 2.1" The figure: Length: 1.75" Width: 1.5" Height: 8"

Netsuke carved by Ryoshu (born in 1912) - one of the best Japanese netsuke carvers of the 20th century, listed on p. 886 of NETSUKE & INRO ARTISTS AND HOW TO READ THEIR SIGNATURES by George Lazarnick. Netsuke represents a kappa hunched protectively over a cucumber. Kappa (translated from Japanese as “river child”) are mythical river goblins with the body of a tortoise, limbs of a frog, and the head of a monkey...

Netsuke of standing Jurojin (one of the 7 Gods of happiness, usually associated with longevity) holding a scepter with reishi fungus head, wearing a cape, a long robe and a spotted deer (the animal is a symbol of longevity) skirt. There is a nice detail for a netsuke lover - he is wearing an inro suspended by a manju netsuke. Excellent carving - see the detailing of his portrait quality face, incised fingernails, texture and spots of the deer skirt. Superb quality staining, beautiful patina...

19th century netsuke of a sitting boy holding a turtle with one hand, and trying to break its shell with a stone that he holds in the other. Unusual subject, strong early carving, wonderful wear consistent with age, beautiful patina with yellowing on the back, where netsuke was touching silk of the kimono. Nice textile patterns, Height 1.41 inches.

Height: 3.7 cm (1.4 in)
Width: 1.5 cm (0.6 in)

Japanese netsuke of entwined gourds; probably marine natural material; fine seal carved to the base; signed Shuzan; good condition

Hardcover book “THE BAUR COLLECTION: NETSUKE” by Marie-Therese Coullery and Martin Newstead in perfect condition. This book is number 716 out of limited numbered edition of 1500. One of the world's most important collections of netsuke is richly illustrated in this definitive volume. Arranged by subject with general subject description followed by exact description and photo of each netsuke...

This is a FINELY CARVED IVORY TWO HORSES NETSUKE. Two HORSES testing each other.... Signed on the bottom. Circa 1950 perhaps a little earlier

Netsuke of a standing sumo wrestler wearing an apron and getting ready for a match. Excellent concentrated and tranquil face, great sense of volume to his limbs and body. Signed NORIMITSU inside the apron. Excellent sculpture. Height 2 1/8 inches.

Netsuke of a Chokwaro sennin horse appearing out of a gourd. According to a Japanese legend Chokwaro sennin (Chinese sage) could summon the magic horse out of his gourd to be transported wherever he wanted. Clever design, excellent carving with great detailing - see its face, mane and front legs with delicately carved hooves. Beautiful flawless material, excellent quality etching with black ink, wonderful patina...

Height: 3.5 cm (1.4 in)
Length: 4.4 cm (1.8 in)
Depth: 2.3 cm (0.9 in)

Japanese carved netsuke of a standing elephant in full parade regalia; signed on a foot, Mitsuyuki; good condition

Width: 4.8 cm (1.9 in) Height: 2.9 cm (1.2 in) Depth: 2.4 cm (0.9 in) Japanese carved netsuke of people in a treehouse; natural material; two samurai being served food; signed Ryumin on the base; good condition

Length: 3.7 cm (1.5 in)
Height: 2.9 cm (1.2 in)
Depth: 2.4 cm (1 in)

Japanese carved netsuke of a dog chewing on a sandal; natural material; inlaid horn eyes; some age lines present; good condition

Netsuke of standing Jurojin (one of the 7 Gods of happiness, usually associated with longevity) holding a scroll and a fan in his hands, with a reclining spotted deer (symbol of longevity) by his feet. Excellent carving - see the detailing of his face, incised fingernails, coat and spots of the deer. Great quality staining, beautiful patina. Signed SHINZAN on the bottom - for a brief discussion of the artist see CONTEMPORARY NETSUKE by Miriam Kinsey, p. 237. Height 2 1/16 inches.

Height: 3.3 cm (1.6 in)
Width: 5.8 cm (2.6 in)

Japanese ivory okimono of three wise monkeys; signed; circa early 20th century

Fine Japanese carved rosewood netsuke figure., depicting a hand holding a monkey, signed Hashi, early 20th century period. Size; Height of carving is 1 7/8 inches. Condition Report, Excellent condition.

This is a contemporary, excellently carved carved polychrome netsuke depicting a standing Jurojin, one of the Seven Gods of Good Fortune, who is known as the god of longevity. He holds a staff with a sutra hanging from it on his right hand, and a fan on his left hand. Intricate detail and colors characterize this wonderful miniature sculpture carved by Akihiro Zusuki, a netsuke artist currently living in Hokkaido, Japan...

Height: 3.5 cm (1.4 in)
Length: 5.4 cm (1.2 in)
Depth: 4.2 cm (1.7 in)

Quality carved netsuke of a man crouching, grinding grain with a stone wheel; signed on a red lacquer tablet; good condition

This mid 20th century carved wood netsuke is 1 7/8” high, 1 ½” wide and 7/8” thick. It depicts two playful mice resting on a small flat basket. The mouse on the top is chewing the tail of the other one and the one on the bottom is fighting back by biting the other one’s back leg. It is signed but is not legible. The carving is very nice and it is in great condition.

Length: 4.4 cm (1.7 in)
Height: 3.3 cm (1.4 in)
Depth: 2.5 cm (1 in)

Japanese netsuke of a young boy in the crawling position, his hands clasped; natural material; signed under the arm; good condition

Length: 4.2 cm (1.7 in)
Height: 1.8 cm (0.7 in)
Depth: 3.2 cm (1.2 in)

Japanese mask netsuke of a fox; natural material; stained and signed

These two well carved and polished netsuke are early or mid - 20th century products. The tall one is a bare footed older man holding a long staff. It is 3 ¾” high, 1 ¼” wide and three quarters of an inch thick. The artist’s signature, “Hajime,” is carved on the bottom. The shorter one is an old man holding a small Mokugyo wood drum which is often used in Buddhist chanting. It is 3” high, 1 ¼” wide and 1” thick. The artist’s signature, “Issen,” is on the bottom...

DESCRIPTION: An unusual netsuke featuring an abalone shell crafted from wavy burl wood with an ivory lobster perched on top. The lobster’s curled antennas are made of metal, and on the underside of the shell a signature is etched into the wood. Early to mid 20th century in very good condition. DIMENSIONS: 1 ¾” long (4.5 cm).

Netsuke of standing Jurojin holding a turtle on his hand. Jurojin is one of 7 Gods of Good Fortune, that of longevity, and the turtle - one of his usual companions - is also associated with longevity. The netsuke is essentially a wish for long life. Very nicely carved, great level of detail and perfectly captured facial expression, expert staining. Signed SEIGYOKU on the back - for a discussion of the artist see CONTEMPORARY NETSUKE by Miriam Kinsey, p. 226. Height 1 7/8 inches.

Japanese Edo Staghorn and leather Tobacco pouch and Pipe case with lacquered ojime bead. The pouch has a censor menuki type clasp . The leather appears warn but the stitching is tight and the leather supple and useable. No pipe but most Kiseru pipes will fit . Horn l 7.75" the pouch 4.5" by 3"

Height: 4.8 cm (1.9 in)
Width: 4.3 cm (1.7 in)
Depth: 2.5 cm (1 in)

Japanese netsuke of a crying child in a seated position with a spilled bowl; natural material; signed on the base; good condition

Height: 4.8 cm (1.9 in)
Width: 2.9 cm (1.2 in)
Depth: 1.3 cm (0.6 in)

Japanese netsuke of a priest; natural material; nice patina and good condition

Netsuke carved by Ryoshu (born in 1912) - one of the best Japanese netsuke carvers of the 20th century. Netsuke represents a doll of Daruma (founder of Zen Buddhism) enveloped in monastic robe, and his eyes can pop in and out. Perfectly captured facial expression, beautifully incised and etched facial hair and 3 flowering chrysanthemums on his robe. It appears that the artist etched a different design on every piece of this model of his - see the other Darumas by Ryoshu on my site...

Netsuke carved by Ryoshu (born in 1912) - one of the best Japanese netsuke carvers of the 20th century. Netsuke represents a doll of Daruma (founder of Zen Buddhism) enveloped in monastic robe, and his eyes can pop in and out. Perfectly captured facial expression, beautifully incised and etched facial hair and 3 flowering chrysanthemums on his robe. It appears that the artist etched a different design on every piece of this model of his - see the other Darumas by Ryoshu on my site. Excellent cle...

Marine material netsuke of an owl sitting on a tree stump with new branches and leaves. Excellent quality detailed carving, wonderful face with somewhat puzzled expression, beautiful depiction of differentiated feathers, pleasant patina, eyes are inlaid with black horn. Signed MASAMITSU on the bottom, wonderful netsuke by a master carver. Height 1 5/8 inches.

Netsuke carved by Ryoshu (born in 1912) - one of the best Japanese netsuke carvers of the 20th century. Netsuke represents a doll of Daruma (founder of Zen Buddhism) enveloped in monastic robe, and his eyes can pop in and out. Perfectly captured facial expression, facial hair and mandarin duck decoration on his robe beautifully incised and etched with ink. It appears that the artist etched a different design on every piece of this model of his - see the other Darumas by Ryoshu on my site. Excell...

Japanese carved boxwood netsuke, depicting a frog sitting on a leaf in form of a scoop, inlaid eyes, intricately and delicately carved, Signed on the side by the artist. Size: This item has length of 3.5 inches. Condition Report: Excellent condition.

Japanese Composite Inro, having gilt mon decoration and a double gourd form netsuke, together with a small Japanese bronze mirror. Length of mirror 5 5/8 inches.

Book NETSUKE: A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY BASED ON THE M. T. HINDSON COLLECTION by Neal Davey, Faber & Faber, London, 1974. Hardcover, dust jacket, 564 pages, 12”x8.25”. Absolutely essential reference book with thorough descriptions and black and white photos of 1322 netsuke with some 300 actual signatures. Most valuable part is an index of 3425 known netsuke artists with their names in Japanese characters, type of work, time period and preferred medium. The study of the collection itself includes...

Netsuke representing a theatrical mask of Hyottoko - a perplexed peasant - carved by Ryoshu (born in 1912) - one of the best Japanese netsuke carvers of the 20th century (see p. 886 of NETSUKE & INRO ARTISTS AND HOW TO READ THEIR SIGNATURES by George Lazarnick). Wonderful expressive face, black and red ink highlights, beautiful finish to the surface. Signed RYOSHU on the back. Height 1 inch.

Japanese glass ojime in a form of tombodama bead with milky white core and a band of multicolored flowers with fine tiny silver foil inclusions. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Superbly made piece - see the individual stamens and finely textured petals, in perfect condition. Height 0.74 inches.

Japanese glass ojime in a form of tombodama bead with four white petaled flowers with multicolored stamens, leaves and fine tiny silver foil inclusions. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Superbly made piece - see the individual stamens and finely textured petals, in perfect condition. Height 0.8 inches.

Japanese glass ojime in a form of tombodama bead with rich multicolored ribbon core and four pink petaled flowers with yellow stamens. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Superbly made piece - see the individual stamens and finely textured petals, in perfect condition. Height 0.8 inches.

Glass ojime (slide bead for tightening the cord going from netsuke to inro) in a form of tombodama bead in barrel shape with 5 bunnies frolicking in the snow by spruce trees during a snowfall. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Beautifully made, very pleasant patina. Diameter 0.69 inches.

Japanese glass ojime in a form of tombodama bead with nine yellow petaled flowers with orange stamens, leaves and 24K gold leaf inclusions. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Superbly made piece - see the individual stamens and finely textured petals, in perfect condition. Height 0.8 inches.

Japanese glass ojime in a form of tombodama bead with blue and red core, four pink petaled flowers with numerous white stamens, leaves and fine tiny silver foil inclusions. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Superbly made piece - see the individual stamens and finely textured petals, in perfect condition. Height 0.77 inches.

Finely crafted, delicately carved Japanese wood netsuke, depicting Toad w/ toad on its back, early to mid 20th century period. Size; Dimensions are 1.5"L x 1"H. Condition Report; Good condition.

Rather unusual Japanese porcelain obidome / netsuke in a shape of a mask of a female theatrical character Waka-Onna. Obidome is worn on an obi cord that holds the obi sash together, and is the only type of jewelry worn by Japanese women on formal occasions. Very clever design, excellent modeling and enameling - see her crisp features and delicate toning of the face. Bar on the back for an obi or netsuke cord, in perfect condition. Signed KOSUZU on the back. Comes with original tomobako (a storag...

Glass ojime (slide bead for tightening the cord going from netsuke to inro) in a form of tombodama bead in barrel shape with semitransparent body and decoration of Santa Claus, Christmas tree and falling snow. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Beautifully made, very pleasant patina. Diameter 0.72 inches.

Japanese glass ojime in a form of tombodama bead with four yellow petaled flowers with richly textured complex centers, leaves and fine tiny silver foil inclusions. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Superbly made piece - see the individual stamens and finely textured petals, in perfect condition. Height 0.88 inches.

Japanese glass ojime in a form of tombodama bead representing Zen Buddhism Patriarch Daruma enveloped in blue robe with various flowers. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Exceptionally well made piece - see his face with expression of severe concentration and finely done minute flowers of different species, in perfect condition. Diameter o.64 inches....

Lot of 9 Sotheby’s catalogs from 1978 to 1983 relating to netsuke. Very good reference material, all in decent vintage condition, black and white photos, most of catalogs with prices realized.

Japanese carved boxwood netsuke, depicting a mouse in sitting position holding a pumpkin, inlaid eyes, intricately and delicately carved. Size: This item has length of 2 1/4 inches. Condition Report: Excellent condition.

Japanese obidome (sash ornament) with polished moss agate stone, its natural pattern perfectly resembling an early morning with mist revealing trees and bushes with wonderful atmosphere. Obidome is worn on an obi cord that holds the obi sash together, it is the only type of jewelry worn by Japanese women on formal occasions, and could serve as netsuke as well. Amazing natural picture, excellent finish and patina. Metal fitting on the back with two loops for an obi cord. Length 1 1/2 inches.

Vintage green stained staghorn obidome (sash ornament) carved as a running lizard. Obidome is worn on an obi cord that holds the obi sash together, it is the only type of jewelry worn by Japanese women on formal occasions, and could serve as netsuke as well. Clever design, good quality carving, nice finish and patina, two metal fittings on the back for an obi cord. Length 2 inches.

Unusual vintage Japanese wooden obidome (sash ornament) carved as a peony flower with leaves resting on an open fan. Obidome is worn on an obi cord that holds the obi sash together, it is the only type of jewelry worn by Japanese women on formal occasions, and could serve as netsuke as well. Excellent sharp carving, beautiful painted highlights, very pleasant to handle. Signed on the back with a kakihan (carved monogram) of the artist. Length 3.1 inches.

Vintage Japanese glass obidome (sash ornament) with domed top containing delicate multicolored flower with stem and leaves on lattice background. Obidome is worn on an obi cord that holds the obi sash together, it is the only type of jewelry worn by Japanese women on formal occasions, and could serve as netsuke as well. Beautiful design, excellent quality glasswork, very pleasant to hold. Metal fixture with two loops on the back for an obi cord. Diameter 1 1/16 inches.

Japanese glass ojime in a form of tombodama bead with white core and two birds on a long branch with leaves and flowers. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Superbly made piece - see the individual petals and leaves, in perfect condition. Height 3/4 inches.